Seems like most trappers preference is a straighter tang on the back of their trapping hammer. If that's the case, why do the trapping supply companies continue building hammers with an angled tang?

Very good question. The first hammer I ever saw with a straight cutting piece was in the fine book by James Lucero. He explained that the straight cutting edge allows one to cut a straight wall in the trap bed. He felt that facilitated a bed that was easier to work with. That book came out in the 1980s, early I think. Many have picked up on the idea but I have not seen others mention Lucero's wolfer book. I suppose others certainly come up with the idea. I like a tile spade used as Bob J. suggested.

Mac

Also, the straight blade doesn't throw dirt and rock back into your face as bad

thskeer, That particular hammer has been around a long time. Probably since the late 70's early 80's at least. That thing has been to many states and dug lots of trap beds in my days. Tells you how old I am. I have done a few fiberglass repairs on the handle base as can be seen in the photo.

Back in those days of the early 70's all thru the 80's all I used was re-bars and dog knot stakes for cross staking and single long stakes etc. and some drags.

Every now and then a fella would have a poor aim and hit that handle a time or two near the base. It didn't happen often but that thing has some weight to it and can put a stake down good and fast. Still use it to this day. I use to use that hammer one handed now I use two on it. I was young then now I am not so young.

Trap supply companies aren't building them, they are cheap overseas imported hammers.

I do not like the combination gizmo hammer first posted. Too many things on the handles for all uses. A good handle is an important part of a tool.

In my opinion the best trapping hammers are Estwing Drilling and Engineer’s hammers. I buy them from Tom Stalker who customizes them with a digging blade that is welded on straight back. They do not throw debris back on me and easy to cut the edge making a crisp trap bed edge.

Plus, I enjoy working with nice tools, preferably made in the USA.

I like mine = from Josh at Fur Shed Its 6 lbs

This is the one I like, it's like a dead blow hammer.
Has 4 metal rods run up the molded handle.
Taking the shock out of hammering.

Ingenious design!

High Roller Hammer , sold by O'Gorman Ent. , since the early 80's